When the word IT company is mentioned, most people probably imagine a group of enthusiastic programmers. Although they form a large part of the workforce, consultants also play an equally important role in projects.
We have already discussed who consultants are and what they generally do. However, for many, this profession remains a mystery, and it is not easy to navigate the related job offers. It is a very broad term.
So today we’re going to dig deeper and look at the various types of consultants.
Diversity by areas
At GLOBESY, we primarily focus on the digitalisation of HR processes. Therefore, today we will only explore a relatively small part of the topic of consultants and focus on the types that you would find under our roof.
Most of our teams consist of HCM (human capital management) consultants – specialists in HR processes and individual software solutions. They can perfectly configure these solutions for customers and teach users to work with them.
A significant group are also business consultants – experts on specific business issues. Even before implementation, they can analyse the customer’s requirements and possibilities, and propose an optimal path tailored to their needs.
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Last but not least, we have a customer support team. Its members are also consultants in a way, as they constantly communicate with customers, try to understand their current needs, offer assistance, and improve individual solutions.
Narrow specialisations
The categorization doesn’t end with HCM or business. HCM itself covers a broad spectrum of topics. This type of software covers processes across the entire employee lifecycle – from basic personnel management to talent management, including advanced data analysis.
Quite a lot for one person. Therefore, HCM consultants specialise in different parts of this entire system. That’s why you can see attributes like Payroll, Recruiting, or Time Management associated with IT HCM consultants. They continuously improve and educate themselves in these areas, which may eventually lead to obtaining specific certifications.
To code or not to code?
A specific characteristic of consultants’ work is that they typically do not operate in isolation from other members of the project team. Various parts of HCM systems are interconnected and influence each other.
Payroll may relate to compensation, learning to succession or goal planning. Consultants therefore work on their areas of expertise, but at the same time, their workload tends to overlap with other consultants. And not just with them.
It is still true that consultants are the connecting link between the user and the software. They typically pass on requests for significant system changes, which require code modifications, to programmers.
To some extent, their work may also overlap with that of a programmer, and you might encounter consultants who are more or less skilled in programming. However, programming is not a necessary skill for most of them. If they have this knowledge, it acts more as a personal advantage, allowing them to view various situations from different perspectives.
Are you drawn to a consultant's path?
This article provides enough parameters that distinguish consultants from each other. What do they have in common? This profession offers a diverse spectrum of areas to specialize in, and each offers many challenges. There are many opportunities for finding new solutions, meeting new people, solving challenges, and above all, many opportunities for development and growth.
Sales And Marketing Associate
Nikola Krnáčová
A marketer with the soul of an artist. Passionate about branding and creativity in an IT company.
